When it comes to flossing your teeth, just how important is it?
While large long-term studies on flossing are limited, many short-term studies on flossing have shown good results. Based on those results and what they see inside patients’ mouths every day, most dentists recommend flossing on a regular basis.
Read on to learn why.
Dental health and gum disease
Many people are unaware of the link between their mouth and body. Studies show that oral health is closely tied to your overall health:
- A past Columbia University College of Dental Medicine study found there may be a link between gum disease and the risk of stroke and heart disease. And more recently, findings published in January 2025 from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) cohort study showed that regular flossing may lower the risk of ischemic stroke, cardioembolic stroke subtype and atrial fibrillation.
- The American Journal of Preventive Medicine released a study in 2014 that had analyzed insurance claims of 339,000 people with evidence of gum disease, as well as type 2 diabetes, coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease (stroke), rheumatoid arthritis or pregnancy. Based on the cost analysis, results indicated that treating gum disease may lessen the negative consequences of some of these conditions.
- A similar study focusing on diabetes and gum disease was published in The Journal of the American Dental Association in 2023. That study reported that a healthy mouth can play a key role in managing diabetes.
- Costs associated with dental problems are rising for Americans, according to the American Dental Association (ADA). National dental expenditures were $174 billion in 2023, which was up $4 billion dollars (2.5%) from 2022.
The benefits of flossing
As we know, the mouth is full of bacteria: Both good and bad. And when bacteria sticks around too long, whether in plaque or tartar, there’s a higher chance of tooth decay and gum disease. However, many dental problems can be avoided with good oral hygiene – including flossing – and a healthy diet.
Flossing gets rid of bacteria-filled plaque
Has your dentist talked to you about plaque? It’s a sticky film that coats a tooth and, when not removed by brushing and flossing, it can harden and form tartar. Bacteria is found in both plaque and tartar, which can harm your gums, causing the soft tissue around your teeth to swell. And when swelling and inflammation doesn’t go away, it can lead to gum disease.
Properly brushing your teeth removes most bacteria, but it can’t reach all of it, especially between teeth. Flossing reaches more places in your mouth where a toothbrush can’t go. And the more bacteria you remove, the better.
How often should you floss?
Flossing once a day is often enough, but you can floss twice a day if you want to be sure that you’re getting all the food out from between your teeth.
Why does flossing hurt?
There is a caveat to flossing once or twice per day: You need to floss gently. If flossing hurts, it may be a sign that you’re pushing down too hard, which can damage your gums. Also, if you haven’t flossed recently, your gums may be inflamed from the plague between your teeth. This may make flossing painful initially, but it will get better as you continue to floss and inflammation goes down.
Should you use a Waterpik or dental floss?
A Waterpik is a brand of water flosser (also called an oral irrigator) that’s earned a seal of acceptance by the ADA. It sends a stream of water at your teeth and can get to areas that may be difficult to reach with a toothbrush. It’s a good solution for people who have a hard time using floss or have braces.
However, a Waterpik should not replace floss or brushing. It can be used before or after to remove any lingering food or bacteria, and it can also remove plaque along the gumline. This could help prevent or reduce gingivitis, gum disease and bleeding.
How does diet help maintain dental health?
Your diet affects your mouth, too. Some foods and drinks are better than others. Stay away from ones that are highly acidic, like pop, as they are more likely to cause cavities. That’s because the acid in pop or energy drinks can cause wear on your teeth, making them more sensitive or prone to fracture.
How do you get cavities? Cavities form when bacteria take the sugar from your food and turn it into an acid. Acid eats away your tooth enamel, which can form a hole (or cavity) in your tooth. But don’t worry! There are also foods that can help fight cavities.
Choose this: Nuts, fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy and water
Not that: Dried fruit, potato chips, candy (especially sour candy), pop and juice
Questions about flossing or other tooth concerns? Talk to a dentist.
Good brushing and flossing help prevent cavities and gum disease. And this is a big benefit to your overall health. Talk to your dentist during your next preventive visit and ask what's best for your oral health routine.
Also, if you think you may have gum disease, don’t ignore your symptoms. The earlier you address any issues, the better.
Are you a HealthPartners plan member who needs help finding a dentist? Search our dental networks to see if your dentist is in-network. Looking for coverage? Find an individual or family dental plan that works for you. We’re here to help.